by CRA Corporate Research Associates

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17 Jun 2014

Nova Scotians Remain Divided Regarding Diversity and Immigration

HALIFAX: Nova Scotians hold mixed opinions when considering the level of diversity our province has in terms of its population and culture, according to the most recent survey conducted by Corporate Research Associates Inc. Indeed, consistent with previous results, nearly one-half of residents (45%, compared with 46% in May 2013 and August 2004) believe Nova Scotia to be less diverse than the rest of Canada. Meanwhile, two in ten (20%, unchanged from May 2013 and compared with 21% in August 2004) consider the province to be more diverse, while one-third (32%, compared with 27% and 28%) indicate Nova Scotia is neither more nor less diverse than the rest of the country. Four percent (compared with 7% and 5%) do not know or do not offer an opinion on the matter.

In addition, Nova Scotians were asked if the province would be best served by having more, fewer, or the same number of immigrants. Results indicate that residents are more likely to agree that the province is best served with the same number of immigrants as in recent years. Four in ten (41%, compared with 42% in May 2013 and 47% in August 2004) believe the province should keep the same level of immigration, while one-quarter believe we should have fewer immigrants (25%, compared with 24% and 18%). Three in ten residents believe the province should allow more immigrants (30%, compared with 28% in May 2013 and August 2004) from other countries. Three percent (compared with 5% and 6%) do not know or do not have an opinion.

“In a province where only four percent of our population is foreign born, it is disheartening to see that the average Nova Scotian does not recognize our lack of diversity and the need for increased immigration in Nova Scotia,” said Don Mills, Chairman and CEO of Corporate Research Associates.

Perceptions of the level of diversity are correlated with education and income, with higher household income earners and those with higher levels of education more likely than others to agree the province is less diverse. In addition, regardless of region, residents are most likely to indicate the province is best served with the same number of immigrants.

These results are part of the CRA Atlantic Quarterly®, an independent, quarterly survey of Atlantic Canadians, and are based on a telephone sample of 400 adult Nova Scotians, conducted from May 8 to May 27, 2014, with overall results accurate to within ± 4.9 percentage points, 95 out of 100 times.

For more information, please contact: Don Mills, Chairman and CEO at (902) 493-3838